Support UM News on World Press Freedom Day: Give to help sustain and expand the storytelling capacity of UM News. Your donation today will transform information into inspiration and ensure we can continue sharing stories of God’s work in the world through The UMC. Help us reach our $10,000 goal and keep this vital ministry fair, faithful, trusted and free for all!

Tribute to Sen. Daniel K. Inouye

Ronald M Higashi, executive director of the Susannah Wesley Community Center in Honolulu, sent to United Methodist News Service his tribute to the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye.

Inouye, a lifelong member of the Methodist tradition, also gave his time and financial support to the United Methodist mission agency that serves the financially strapped Kalihi neighborhood in Honolulu. The Hawaiian senator died Dec. 17 at the age of 88. Below is Higashi’s tribute:

“The senator was a regular visitor to Susannah Wesley Community Center over the years. He was the co-chair of the fundraising campaign over 15 years ago that resulted in the construction of our youth center that today provides positive youth development programs and services to hundreds of youth and families annually.

“He regularly attended, when his congressional duties allowed, our Competency Based High School Diploma Program graduation exercises. The program is for high school dropouts who, for whatever the reason, were unable to function in the traditional school setting. Although some annual graduation classes were as few as 10 youth, he would be there to congratulate them on their success and persistence.

“Throughout the years, the senator was an ‘Angel’ to the center. He has stepped in more than once, without being approached, to help the center as funding for much-needed human services decreased. Most recently he and his wife, Irene Hirano, gave us a large personal contribution that enable matches by two large national foundations. This enabled the center to continue to provide much needed services.

“His presence will be missed by the center and those that we serve.”


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now
Social Concerns
Bishop Julius C. Trimble. Photo by Tessa Tillett for the Indiana Conference.

Love demands compassionate response, prophetic witness

United Methodists have a long history of advocating for the needs of others. Today, that call continues.
Theology and Education
Cliff White. Photo courtesy of the author.

Why our church is in trouble

United Methodist leaders should stop pursuing ideological goals and instead focus on making disciples of Jesus Christ, says a longtime church member.
Church Leadership
Anna Riddle. Photo by Heather Gaydeski Photography.

Carrie Parrish's legacy holds lessons for today

A trailblazer for women clergy in The United Methodist Church, Parrish championed equality and fought to tear down barriers in her day.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2025 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved